Department of State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs: 2026 Fiscal Year

The FY 2026 Congressional Budget Justification for the Department of State outlines a sharp realignment of U.S. foreign policy and funding priorities. The proposal significantly reduces overall foreign assistance and shifts resources toward efforts deemed more directly tied to national interest, such as border security, economic competitiveness, and strategic partnerships. It discontinues funding to certain international organizations, consolidates aid programs, and seeks to streamline operations by absorbing parts of USAID. At its core, the request reflects an “America First” approach, emphasizing performance, cost-efficiency, and geopolitical leverage.